Structural Integrity
“Joyful are people of integrity, who follow the instructions of the Lord.(”) (Psalm 119:1 NLT)
A home’s foundation supports the weight of the building and ensures stability of the structure by distributing the load evenly to the underlying soil upon which the house stands. Degradation of materials, improper construction, or soil erosion can compromise a foundation. At first, the damage may not be apparent. Then, small cracks appear. The house starts bending and buckling, unable to support its own weight. A building that is structurally compromised will eventually collapse.
Similarly, a lack of integrity in character can lead to failure. Degradation of standards, moral compromises, and self-deception can corrode the structural stability of our lives. Faith is integral to a firm foundation. God’s standards of building are solid. Those who are committed to the Lord obey His will in all things.
“They do not compromise with evil, and they walk in his paths.” (Psalm 119:3 NLT)
Do not compromise with evil. Take no deviations from the path of righteousness. Find a community of faith that can hold you accountable. Watch out for the corrosion of sin. Build up berms that protect your foundation from evil. Immerse your mind in the Word of God. Ask the Holy Spirit for guidance.
“Keep me from lying to myself: give me the privilege of knowing your instructions.” (Psalm 119:29 NLT)
Examine yourself for deceit that has crept in. Self-deception is costly. It wrecks your credibility and dignity. After a while, you start believing your own lies. You lose trust in yourself. Once your structural integrity is compromised, everything comes crashing down.
Lord, keep me from lying to myself. Protect my integrity. Teach me Your Word, so I can follow Your guidance. Grant me the light of Truth.